EWR Tower Controller reported ongoing construction within the tower is causing visual obstructions and health hazards; impacting safe operations.

Date: 2026-02 · Aircraft: Any Unknown or Unlisted Aircraft Manufacturer · Phase: taxi

Anomalies: atc-issue-all-types|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-published-material-policy|ground-event-encounter-other-unknown|no-specific-anomaly-occurred-unwanted-situation

Synopsis

EWR Tower Controller reported ongoing construction within the tower is causing visual obstructions and health hazards; impacting safe operations.

Narrative

I am writing to formally express serious safety concerns regarding the ongoing construction within the Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) Tower.As controllers; we rely heavily on unobstructed visual access to aircraft movement areas to ensure the safe and efficient handling of traffic. Currently; construction activity has significantly obstructed our ability to clearly observe traffic at Romeo Mike while actively working aircraft. The obstruction of the tower windows directly impacts our situational awareness and compromises operational safety.Although it has been stated that plastic barriers were installed to contain dust and debris; visibility through these materials still allows a clear view of ongoing construction activity. This creates both distraction and concern; in addition to raising questions about the effectiveness of the containment measures. Furthermore; the continued exposure to construction dust and airborne debris presents potential health hazards to employees working in the tower environment.The current conditions are unsafe for both operational and health-related reasons. As safety professionals; we are held to the highest standards in protecting the flying public. We must also ensure that our own working environment meets appropriate safety standards.What immediate corrective actions are being taken to eliminate these hazards? How will management ensure that operational visibility is fully restored and that employee health is not compromised?We request that this matter be addressed urgently; with clear communication outlining a mitigation plan and timeline for resolution.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.